Departure Dates

Sail for the legendary North Pole on this exciting 14-day Arctic voyage aboard the nuclear icebreaker, 50 Years of Victory. Explore the High Arctic from many angles: view the moving icebreaker from air on a helicopter ride, feel the thick pack ice under your boots while walking, and observe bears, birds, and walruses are you sail.

Day 1

Arrive in Helsinki, Finland

Following your arrival in Helsinki and transfer to your hotel, you are greeted by your ship representative in the lobby.

Day 2

Fly to Murmansk, Russia / Embark

After a transfer from your hotel, board a chartered plane for the short two hour flight to Murmansk. There, board 50 Years of Victory, the most powerful icebreaker in the world. From here, depart Murmansk and start your journey north via Kola Bay.

Day 3

The Barents Sea

While continuing your journey north across the Barents Sea, you are introduced to the safety instructions which have been put in place to ensure your complete protection both aboard the ship and during your High Arctic Expedition. You also have the opportunity to become familiar with the ship and learn all about its unique icebreaking capabilities and how ice fields are negotiated. One of the highlights of this day is a tour of the amazing engine room. All this and more are on the day’s agenda.

Days 4-6

Voyage to the North Pole

As exciting as reaching the North Pole will be, the three days voyage there leaves you feeling equally energized. Adrenaline and awe await as you go up on deck and witness first-hand the sheer power of our ship as it battles its way through the mighty ice fields that separate you from your arrival at the top of the world. No less inspiring are the views and panoramas of the astonishing Arctic landscape.

Off-deck adventure also awaits you on your way north. Time, weather and/or ice conditions permitting, you may experience breathtaking helicopter rides over the icebreaker as it plows its way through the ice. For those wishing to take some time away from their new-found sea legs, a walk on the ice pack might do the trick.

Day 7

The North Pole

Seven is more than just a lucky number; it’s the day we expect to reach the North Pole. With heart-pounding anticipation, your ship is slowly maneuvered into position at exactly 90◦ N. Welcome to the Geographical North Pole!

But this is only the start of your adventure. Disembarking from the ship, experience the once-in-a-lifetime thrill of standing on the top of the world. To celebrate this victory, join hands with your fellow passengers while everyone literally walks around the world during our special International Round Dance.

Topping off the day is a signature North Pole barbecue and - for the more daring and adventurous - a plunge into the Arctic Ocean.

Days 8-10

The Islands of the Russian Arctic

During the many years that your ship has been operating in the Russian Arctic, the capable crew have gained a truly unique experience exploring the many Arctic lands in this region, one of the most remote in the world. It is truly the crew's pleasure to share it and their love for these vast lands with you. 24 hours of daylight gives you numerous opportunities to explore the islands of the Russian Arctic during zodiac excursions and helicopter sightseeing rides.

Given favorable weather and ice conditions, exploration of the Franz Josef Land archipelago is in the offering. Consisting of about 190 islands, most of which are reminiscent of moon craters, Franz Josef Land is home to polar bears, walruses and many species of Arctic birds.

Days 11-12

The Barents Sea

During the journey back to Murmansk, you have ample opportunity to relive your Arctic adventure by sharing your favorite memories of all that has befallen you while on this voyage. And if you didn’t do so before, then take some time to enjoy the facilities and amenities that have been provided for your onboard comfort - a game of volleyball, a visit to the gym, a dip in the pool and a sauna followed by a massage. Or simply relax in the ship’s lounge, bar, or library.

Day 13

Breakfast

Disembark in Murmansk, Russia

After disembarking in Murmansk, transfer to Helsinki where you spend a last evening in the Finnish capital.

Day 14

Breakfast

Helsinki, Finland / Depart

Following breakfast, depart for the airport and your journey home. Mission accomplished!

Standard Twin

Mini Suite

Junior Suite

Grand Suite

Victory Suite

Arktika Suite

2015-Aug-10

$25,995

$29,995

$35,995

$36,995

$38,995

$39,995

Mandatory charter flights: $1,690Please note: 2014 rates are subject to change at any time. Please contact us for additional info

Travel Insurance:
All passengers are covered by a medical travel insurance policy to the value of 100,000 EURO which includes medical emergency evacuation and reparation for the cruise portion of the tour only. Additional insurance is strongly recommended.

Solo Travelers:
All rates posted are per person based on double occupancy. Solo travelers can obtain the Twin Standard Cabin for 1.7 the posted rate. All additional categories can be reserved at twice the posted fare.PLEASE NOTE - This itinerary should be considered as a guide only, as it is heavily dependent on both weather and ice conditions.

Included Features
• 1 night pre- & 1 night post expedition hotel accommodation in Helsinki, Finland, with breakfast
• Group transfers when embarking/disembarking your charter flight Helsinki - Murmansk - Helsinki
• Shipboard accommodation with housekeeping
• Shipboard breakfasts, lunches and dinners
• Coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
• All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by helicopter
• All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by zodiacs
• Shore landings included in daily program
• Program of lectures and informal discussions by experienced Expedition Team and guest lecturers
• Professional Expedition Leadership
• An expedition parka to keep
• Waterproof boots for the duration of the cruise
• Hair dryer and bathrobes in each cabin
• Informative pre-departure materials
• Expedition log with picture album on DVD
• All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
• All shipboard luggage handling
• Personalized medical insurance covering the risks of evacuation and repatriation. Coverage EUR 100,000. Duration: cruise days only
• Letter of Invitation. This document should be presented to the Russian Consulate in your area in order to obtain a Russian Visa. Please, contact the Russian Consulate to learn more about the procedure for obtaining a Russian Visa. Do not hesitate to contact Poseidon Expeditions if any questions arise. Let us know if you have any difficulties in visa processing.

Not included:
• Airfare to and from your hometown
• Mandatory charter flights Helsinki - Murmansk - Helsinki - cost per person USD 1,750
• Helicopter flying time in excess of that offered for the group
• Passport and visa expenses (if required); A RUSSIAN VISA IS REQUIRED FOR THE TRIP. THE VISA MUST BE OBTAINED BY THE CUSTOMER AND IS AT HIS OR HER EXPENSE. Please, contact your local Russian Consulate to learn more about the procedure for obtaining a Russian Visa. PLEASE, NOTE: FOR CERTAIN NATIONALITIES SCHENGEN VISA IS REQUIRED
• State arrival and departure taxes (if levied)
• Meals ashore and supplements in respect of single hotel accommodation (if required)
• Excess luggage charges on international and local flights
• Telecommunication services; laundry, bar and beverage charges aboard the vessel;
• Luggage, cancellation insurance (strongly recommended);
• Tips for stewards and other service personnel aboard (at your discretion).